Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has attributed the recent rise in Nigeria’s crude oil production to stronger protection of pipelines and oil facilities across the Niger Delta.

The company said its community-based security strategy, which has included the employment of more than 60,000 youths, has helped reduce oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other illegal activities affecting oil operations.

Paul Bebenimibo, Media Consultant and Special Adviser to Tantita Chairman Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, disclosed this during an award presentation to the company by Blueprint Newspapers for its contribution to pipeline security and national development.

According to Bebenimibo, Tantita’s pipeline surveillance operations, which began in 2022, have improved security around oil-producing communities and created conditions for legitimate economic activities to thrive.

He said the company was supporting the Federal Government’s ambition to increase crude oil production to 2.5 million barrels per day, noting that securing critical oil infrastructure would be essential to achieving the target.

Bebenimibo also revealed that Tantita had introduced drones to strengthen surveillance of the creeks. The technology, he said, enables security teams to detect and respond to illegal activities in remote areas.

Beyond providing employment, he said the company was equipping youths with skills and supporting local businesses through grants for young people, women and other members of host communities.

He added that the combination of job creation, skills development and financial support had helped reduce criminal activities in some parts of the Niger Delta.

Tantita’s intervention comes amid continued efforts to improve security in oil-producing areas and sustain the recovery in Nigeria’s crude oil output.